Eduardo Vargas: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know

Eduardo Vargas, Chile vs. Egypt friendly

(Getty)

Chile striker Eduardo Vargas scored the first of two goals as the Chileans ousted defending champion Spain from the World Cup with a 2-0 win in Group B.

Here’s what you need to know about him:


1. He Scored the First Goal Against Spain

Spain’s chances of making it out of group play were in danger heading into the defending champs’ game against Chile, and Eduardo Vargas helped put them on life support when he scored in the 20th minute to put the Chileans up 1-0. Watch the video above to see him net the shot.


2. He Was a Candidate For South American Player of the Year

Eduardo Vargas, Chile vs. Germany, Kevin Grosskreutz

While playing for the Universidad de Chile in 2010, he was nominated as a candidate for South American Player of the Year, but lost the bid to none other than Brazil’s Neymar, but ended up winning the award in 2011.


3. He’s On Loan to Valencia

Eduardo Vargas, Amadeo Salvo, Francisco Joaquin Perez "Rufete", Valencia

January 2014, Vargas joined La Liga club Valencia on loan from Napoli for the 2013-2014 season. The Chilean talent debuted for Valencia in a match against Spanish Powerhouse, FC Barcelona. Since then he has been a key player on Spain’s Valencia.


4. This Is His First World Cup

Eduardo Vargas goal vs. Spain, Spain vs. Chile, Chile goal

At the age of 24, Vargas is participating in his first World Cup appearance.

His international career began in 2008 when the soccer star played in the Toulon Tournament and Milk Cup. He was named the best striker in both tournaments and later named MVP of the KUPA Talents Cup.

Before making the Chilean national team, Vargas led the U-20 National Team in matches leading up to the 2009 South American Youth Championship. His injuries in the tournament ended up being hindered when he was injured right before, also missing the chance to qualify for the 2010 World Cup team.


5. His Girlfriend Is Pregnant

The soccer star’s longtime girlfriend, Daniela, is recently pregnant with the couple’s first child.

Check out all Heavy’s World Cup coverage here.